A rear rack is an essential addition to your bike. Whether you commute to work, run errands, or head out for a day trip with the family, the right rack helps you carry extra gear safely and comfortably. In this blog, we’ll show you how to get the most out of your rack and which combinations of panniers, baskets and accessories work best.
Why rear racks are often underrated
Many cyclists still see the rear rack as a simple platform to strap down a crate or backpack. But it offers much more. A good rack helps distribute weight evenly and provides a solid base for all kinds of loads. With the right combo of panniers and baskets, you can transport heavy or light items safely, without sacrificing comfort or balance.
Modern racks, like the ones available at CUBE Stores, are lightweight, stylish and easy to install. So whether you're on a sporty ride or a relaxed daily commute, there's a setup that suits your needs.
Panniers: versatile and practical
Panniers are the most flexible way to carry your gear. They offer space for work essentials, groceries or picnic supplies and by splitting the weight between front and/or rear racks, your bike remains stable and easy to handle.
Depending on your ride, you can choose large rear panniers like the ACID Trunk Pro or Travlr Pro series, or go for compact bags on your front rack, such as the Carrier Bag Front, which clips on and off in seconds. That way, your rack becomes the ultimate companion for everything from commuting and day trips to weekend tours.
Baskets: quick and convenient
A bike basket is perfect for items you don’t want to stuff in a bag or that you need to access quickly. Think handbags, sports gear or smaller shopping runs. The big plus? You don’t have to carry anything on your back, which makes riding much more comfortable.
A front basket has the added benefit of keeping your items in sight, especially useful for fragile or valuable belongings. A rear basket, on the other hand, gives you extra room without needing full-size panniers. For daily use, the Carrier Basket City is a great all-in-one solution: a clever hybrid between a basket and a bag that clips on easily and removes just as fast.
Tip: Put heavier items at the back and lighter ones up front. This keeps your bike balanced and your ride more stable.
Extra tips to get the most out of your rack
Ride in the dark often? Choose a rack that makes it easy to attach lights or add an extra rear light directly to your rack to stay visible, even if your panniers partially cover your standard light.
Check the bolts and mounting points regularly, especially if you carry heavier loads. That way, you ensure your rack stays safe and secure for years to come.
Mounting systems for your rear rack
How you attach bags and baskets depends on the type of rack and connection system. With the right setup, your gear will always be firmly and easily secured. At CUBE Stores, we offer four main mounting systems:
- RILink (Rear Integrated): Fits specially designed rear racks with RILink mounts. Ideal for rear panniers, compact shopping bags or baskets.
- FILink (Front Integrated): For front racks with FILink compatibility. Perfect for baskets or front bags you want quick access to.
- SMLink (Side Mount): A universal system for side panniers, compatible with most racks. Great for larger or double panniers.
- CILink (Carrier Integrated): A magnetic system that works with dedicated CILink racks. Designed for compact, removable bags you can grab in one quick motion.
Free rack installation with your bike
At CUBE Stores, we make sure your new bike is fully ready to go. If you order a rack along with your bike, we’ll install it for free, so you can hit the road straight away and enjoy the extra luggage space.
Ride more comfortably with the right rack
Not sure which rack suits your bike? Visit our store or get in touch with our customer service team. Our experts will help you choose the right rack and accessories to fit your riding style, so you're fully equipped for every journey.